CARE AND PROTECTION OF CHILDREN ACT 2007 (NO 37 OF 2007) - SECT 10 Best interests of child

CARE AND PROTECTION OF CHILDREN ACT 2007 (NO 37 OF 2007) - SECT 10

    (1)     When a decision involving a child is made, the best interests of the child are the paramount concern.

    (2)     Without limiting subsection (1), consideration should be given to the following matters in determining the best interests of a child:

    (a)     the need to protect the child from harm and exploitation;

    (b)     the capacity and willingness of the child's parents or other family members to care for the child;

    (c)     the nature of the child's relationship with the child's family and other persons who are significant in the child's life;

    (d)     the wishes and views of the child, having regard to the maturity and understanding of the child;

    (e)     the child's need for permanency in the child's living arrangements;

    (f)     the child's need for stable and nurturing relationships;

    (g)     the child's physical, emotional, intellectual, spiritual, developmental and educational needs;

    (h)     the child's age, maturity, gender, sexuality and cultural, ethnic and religious backgrounds;

        (i)     other special characteristics of the child;

    (j)     the likely effect on the child of any changes in the child's circumstances.